Kent Highways says 20mph zones on 42 roads in the Salmestone and Dane Valley areas of Margate will become a permanent fixture.
The scheme encompasses residential roads including those outside Salmestone, Drapers Mills and St Gregory’s schools and roads off from Victoria traffic lights – not inclusive of Star Lane and College Road between Ramsgate Road and St Peters Road. Part of the zone covers the Hornby model factory and museum area.
Salmestone Residents’ Association carried out an informal consultation in 2019 which showed 94% of respondents in favour of the 20mph speed limit.
County Councillor Barry Lewis requested the scheme and gained an ‘in principle’ agreement in 2021.
Surveys were undertaken in a sample of roads in September 2021 and these showed the average speed of drivers was already low at around 24mph.
The 20mph proposal was advertised during July and August 2022 with consultation resulting in 66 responses: 35 in support and 31 against. Some of those against the idea said it would cause congestion, wasn’t needed and would be wasting money. There were also concerns that the speed limit would be ignored and not enforced.
However, the speed restriction has now been made permanent.
Kent Highways say: “Following the statutory consultation period, the scheme has been reviewed and the decision has been taken to make this Order permanent.”
Reasons for the decision are listed as avoid danger to persons or other traffic using the road or any other road or for preventing the likelihood of any such danger arising and for preserving or improving the amenities of the area through which the road runs.
Cllr Lewis said: “Road safety is of paramount concern to me. Residential areas need to be safe for pedestrians and cyclists so I am delighted that after a long campaign the residential side roads around Margate hospital will become 20mph.
“Hopefully more areas in Thanet will become safe roads in the future.”
The Order was made on 29 February and comes into effect today (March 1).
